Bicycle Mechanics - Chain Removal Help

Is there any way to remove a rusted, stiff chain without a chain rivet tool? What did people do in the old days?

Used a hammer and nail to drive two chain pins out - a chain rivet extractor does the same job, more effectively, efficiently and safely. Or if you are really having problems, use bolt croppers or a hacksaw to chop through the chain. Taking the pins out seems a better choice though.

Used a hammer and nail to drive two chain pins out - a chain rivet extractor does the same job, more effectively, efficiently and safely. Or if you are really having problems, use bolt croppers or a hacksaw to chop through the chain. Taking the pins out seems a better choice though.

Bolt cutters + 3 seconds.

Chain rivet tools have been around for a long time so in "the old days" that's what they used.

A hacksaw or bolt cutters will remove the chain if that's all you want to do but you need the proper tool to install a new one.

Nope, wrong answer --- In the old days, all chains had a connecting link that was very easy to remove, some just friction activated, some with clips of some sort(which always got dropped and lost) and was usually where the chain broke, when it did........ LOL

Chain tools are cheap, and work well. You will need one to push the new pin in anyway....

Just about any strong sidecutters will make pretty short work of emergency removal....

Nope, wrong answer --- In the old days, all chains had a connecting link that was very easy to remove, some just friction activated, some with clips of some sort(which always got dropped and lost) and was usually where the chain broke, when it did........ LOL
For 1/8" single-speed and kids' bike chains, right, they came with a master link. Derailleur chains never had a master link until recently (Super Link, Conex, etc.) so the chain tool has been used for a long time.

Go get yourself a chain breaker they are only $8 even less if you look.
Other wise grind 2 pins down flush with the side and use a hammer and nail to drive it out, but if you don't have the money for an $8 chain tool you probably don't have a grinder so I'm sure you'll find some way to do it.

If it's REALLY rusted stiff, then you could try either 1 pound of c4 OR a 12KW co2 laser. Bear in mind, though, that these are both outdoor procedures.:D

Actually, I agree that you should just get a chain tool. If you are seriously low on cash, then (I can't believe I'm recommending this) you can get one at wal-mart for about $3. Don't use the wal-mart tool on the rusted chain, because it's a total piece of crap, and will probably break (use the aforementioned cutters for the rusted chain). It should suffice for installing the new chain though. As soon as you can, invest in a good chain tool - you won't regret it.

1. Bolt cutters.

2. Take it to a local shop and sweet talk them into breaking the chain for you.